The synthesis and properties of a new linear NPN proligand

Abstract

Following upon the synthesis of new proligands Me₂NCH₂XCH₂NMe₂ (X = O or NMe), we have now prepared quarternised derivatives of the related phosphorus compounds, R₂NCH₂XCH₂NR₂ (R = Me or Et, X = PPh). The ethyl compound can act as a phosphorus donor even when the nitrogen atoms are protonated, and we have characterised fully [NiBr₄{PhP(CH₂NHEt₂)₂}₂][NiBr₄] as well as a polymeric adduct of NiBr₂ and thf, [{Ni₃Br₆(thf)₅}_n].